A man is not so soon healed as hurt.

Harm can be inflicted in an instant, whereas recovery usually demands far more time. The saying stresses the unequal speed of injury and healing, whether the damage is bodily or affects a person's feelings and sense of security.

It counsels restraint before causing pain and patience toward someone who has suffered it. An apology or remedy may matter, yet neither necessarily removes the effects as quickly as the original wound was made. Its older use of “man” is generic rather than limited to males.

Use it to warn against careless or cruel conduct, or to explain why someone may need time after injury, betrayal, harsh words, or another painful experience. It suits reflective discussion, not a precise medical timetable; neutral wording may be preferable for a general audience.